A train struck an 18-wheeler at a railroad crossing in Guadalupe County, with newly released dashcam video capturing the dramatic moments following the collision. The incident, which fortunately resulted in no injuries, adds to growing concerns about railroad crossing safety across Texas and particularly in the Guadalupe County region. The collision occurred at one of the at-grade crossings that traverse FM 78, a roadway that has become a focal point for safety discussions among local officials. Emergency responders arrived at the scene to assess the damage and ensure the safety of the truck driver and train crew. While the specific time of the incident was not disclosed, the collision represents one of numerous train-related accidents that have plagued Texas roadways in recent months. The incident comes amid heightened awareness of railroad crossing dangers, following three separate pedestrian fatalities involving trains in nearby San Antonio over a single weekend. Texas leads the nation with at least 215 train crossing collisions reported in 2025, underscoring the urgent need for improved safety measures at rail intersections throughout the state.

Location and Infrastructure

The collision occurred along FM 78 in Guadalupe County, an area where multiple at-grade railroad crossings intersect with vehicular traffic. FM 78 serves as a major thoroughfare connecting communities including Schertz and other municipalities in the region, experiencing significant commercial truck traffic due to its role in regional commerce. The presence of multiple at-grade crossings—where roadways and railroad tracks meet at the same elevation without grade separation—has been identified by local officials as a significant safety hazard. The City of Schertz, recognizing these dangers, is actively exploring infrastructure improvements including a potential collaboration with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to construct an overpass connecting FM 3009 and FM 78. Such grade-separated crossings would eliminate the conflict points where vehicles and trains currently share the same space, significantly reducing collision risks for both commercial and passenger vehicles traveling through this growing area.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Texas Transportation Code, drivers must stop within 50 feet but not closer than 15 feet from railroad tracks when warning signals indicate an approaching train. In collisions involving commercial vehicles like 18-wheelers, multiple parties may bear potential liability, including the trucking company, the railroad operator, and entities responsible for crossing maintenance and warning systems. Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning injured parties can recover damages if they are less than 51% at fault for the accident. While no injuries were reported in this incident, typical train-crossing accidents can result in claims for vehicle damage, cargo loss, lost wages, and in cases involving injuries, medical expenses and pain and suffering. Commercial truck drivers and companies should be aware that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations impose specific requirements for railroad crossing safety. Texas law generally provides a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims and property damage claims arising from vehicular accidents, making timely consultation with legal professionals important for protecting one's rights.

Related Resources

Local Emergency Services:

• Guadalupe County Sheriff's Office: (830) 379-1224
• Schertz Police Department: (210) 619-1200
• Guadalupe County Emergency Services

Traffic Safety Resources:

• Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Safety Division
• Operation Lifesaver Texas (railroad crossing safety education)
• Federal Railroad Administration Office of Safety

Support Services:

• Guadalupe County Victim Services
• Texas Crime Victim Compensation Program
• National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) accident database

State Traffic Laws and Regulations:

• Texas Transportation Code, Chapter 545 (Operation and Movement of Vehicles)
• Texas Administrative Code, Title 43 (Transportation)
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR)
• Texas Railroad Commission Safety Information